How to Choose the Right Chambers and Project Manage Your Pupillage Applications

Pupillage applications can feel overwhelming, but the first step is deciding which chambers to apply to. The good news? The adverts are now live on the Pupillage Gateway, giving you a clear starting point. These adverts outline which chambers are recruiting, the practice areas they focus on, the structure of pupillage, and the pupillage award. This information is invaluable for narrowing down your options.

Once you’ve reviewed the adverts, dig deeper. Resources like Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners provide rankings and insights into chambers’ reputations within specific practice areas. Chambers’ own websites are also essential reading. Pay attention to what’s known as the “baby junior test”: look at tenants who joined in the last three to five years. Do they share similarities with you in terms of background or experience? This can help you gauge whether you’re a realistic candidate. Also, consider the type of work these barristers are doing now - does it align with your career aspirations?

Remember, this is a two-way process. You’re assessing whether you’re right for chambers, but also whether chambers are right for you. Explore their culture, diversity, and values. Check for published articles, charity initiatives, and any projects that resonate with your own principles. Next, create a comprehensive list of potential chambers. Include details such as location, circuit, primary practice areas, application process (CV and cover letter or application form), pupillage award, and approach to pupillage and tenancy. While the award shouldn’t be your sole deciding factor, it’s important to ensure financial viability. Also, note whether chambers guarantee tenancy for pupils who meet a certain standard or if there’s competition among pupils - this can significantly impact the pupillage environment.

Other factors to consider include whether you’ll have one pupil supervisor or several, and whether you’ll work in one practice area or rotate through multiple. Once you’ve gathered all this information, rank your chambers in order of preference. This helps you prioritise your applications.

To stay organised, build a spreadsheet capturing all these details. Include links to any published marking criteria - some chambers are transparent about how they assess applications, which can be a huge advantage. Group similar application questions together to streamline your drafting process.

For extra support, check out the University of Law’s On-Demand platform (vod.law.ac.uk) which offers videos on drafting and project-managing applications. When drafting, keep your files organised in separate folders to avoid sending the wrong application to the wrong chambers. And never submit without proofreading - pupillage is fiercely competitive, and even minor errors can cost you an interview.

Finally, track your progress: note when you’ve completed first and second drafts, when proofreading is done, and when applications are submitted. Staying organised will reduce stress and improve your chances of success.

Best of luck with your applications!
James - Future Pupil & BPC alumni at The University of Law
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